Amsterdam Visitor Guide

Tips and insights for your trip to Amsterdam

Welcome to Amsterdam!

Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, is famous for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, world-class museums, and liberal culture. This guide provides essential information to help you make the most of your visit.

Top Attractions

Beyond the famous museums featured on our site (Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum), Amsterdam offers countless attractions:

  • Canal Ring (Grachtengordel): A UNESCO World Heritage site comprising a network of intersecting waterways...
  • Rijksmuseum: The Dutch national museum dedicated to arts and history... rijksmuseum.nl
  • Jordaan District: Once a working-class area, now one of Amsterdam's most charming neighborhoods...
  • Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt): The world's only floating flower market...
  • Vondelpark: Amsterdam's largest park...
  • NEMO Science Museum: A striking green copper-clad building... nemosciencemuseum.nl
  • Amsterdam Noord: Take the free ferry behind Central Station to this trendy area...
  • Albert Cuyp Market: The largest daytime market in Europe...

Food & Drink

Indulge in Dutch delicacies and explore Amsterdam's diverse culinary scene:

Dutch Specialties

  • Stroopwafels: Thin waffles stuck together with caramel syrup...
  • Herring: Raw herring served with onions...
  • Bitterballen: Deep-fried crispy meatballs...
  • Poffertjes: Mini fluffy pancakes...
  • Dutch Cheese: Visit Henri Willig or the Reypenaer Cheese Tasting Room...

Recommended Eateries

  • Foodhallen: Indoor food market...
  • De Kas: Restaurant in a converted greenhouse...
  • Winkel 43: Famous for the best apple pie...
  • Brouwerij 't IJ: Brewery in a windmill...
  • Moeders: Traditional Dutch home cooking...

Café Culture

  • Brown Cafés: Traditional Dutch pubs...
  • Canal-side Terraces: Café de Jaren, Café de Sluyswacht...

Markets

  • Foodhallen: Upscale food court...
  • Albert Cuyp Market: Daily market...
  • Noordermarkt: Organic farmers market...
  • Lindengracht Market: Saturday market...

Practical Tips

Currency & Language

  • Currency: Euro (€). Credit cards widely accepted...
  • Language: Dutch is the official language, but English is widely spoken...

Getting Around

Amsterdam is best explored on foot, by bike, or using the efficient public transport system (trams, buses, metro). See our dedicated Transportation Guide for detailed information.

Cycling Tips:

  • Stay in designated bike lanes...
  • Signal turns...
  • Obey traffic lights...
  • Use bike lights at night...
  • Lock your bike securely...

Weather & What to Pack

  • Amsterdam has a maritime climate...
  • Always carry a light raincoat or umbrella...
  • Dress in layers...
  • Comfortable walking shoes are essential...

Safety Tips

  • Amsterdam is generally safe, but be aware of pickpockets...
  • Be cautious in the Red Light District...
  • Don't photograph window workers...
  • Be careful with cannabis...

Discounts & Passes

  • I Amsterdam City Card: Includes free entry to many museums...
  • Amsterdam Museum Card: Good value if visiting several museums...
  • OV-Chipkaart: For public transport...

Useful Information

  • Public Toilets: Not abundant...
  • Tipping: Service usually included...
  • Best Time to Visit: April-May or September-October...

Useful Apps

  • 9292: Public transport planning...
  • GVB: Amsterdam's public transport app...
  • Google Maps...
  • Buienradar...
  • Uber...